State fisheries officials are urging Maine anglers to keep in mind that recent hot dry weather can have a negative effect on coldwater species such as trout and landlocked salmon.
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Fisheries Director Francis Brautigam says this time of year, it’s not unusual to experience low flows and elevated water temperatures in streams, lakes and ponds. He says the real difference this year is the duration.
Those fishing are being asked to be more conscientious when fishing and handling fish.
“Particularly coldwater fish like trout and salmon. That they think about trying to release those fish as soon as possible and also not to play those fish out very long, again to allow those fish to get back down to cold water where they are most comfortable,” Brautigam says.
Brautigam says most years, surface water temperatures in Maine lakes and ponds don’t get much higher than the mid-70s. He says this year high 70s and low 80s are being seen.
